LAW & ORDER: Resident's Social Security number stolen

Authorities are reminding residents to use extra care in protecting their identity after a local man nearly had his Social Security pension check rerouted to Utah.

Karen Botakaren.bota@sentinel-standard.com

Authorities are reminding residents to use extra care in protecting their identity after a local man nearly had his Social Security pension check rerouted to Utah.

Ionia Department of Public Safety Deputy Director John Odette said the resident was contacted by the Social Security Administration by letter twice to confirm that he had moved to Provo, Utah, and changed his account information. He didn't, but someone had.

Odette said the SSA reportedly had 200 accounts compromised in this manner and is investigating.

"Make sure your checks come in as normal," he said. "If you receive a letter like this, make contact with the Social Security Administration to confirm whether there is fraudulent activity going on."

The Ionia victim did not lose any money, said Odette.

To report fraud or abuse, call 1-800-269-0271 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (1-866-501-2101 for the deaf or hard of hearing), or use the online reporting form at http://oig.ssa.gov/report-fraud-waste-or-abuse.